As long ago as 2006, Bosch Rexroth AG and SICK AG arranged a technical co-operation in the area of factory automation. The joint solutions focus on the simplified integration of SICK sensors in Rexroth controllers. Users profit from more rapid system integration, and co-ordinated interfaces with open standards assist during commissioning and diagnosis.
The aim of the technical co-operation between the two companies is to produce system solutions allowing ideal and flexible integration for both standard and safety-oriented applications. The control systems from the Automation House of Rexroth combined with SICK’s comprehensive sensor range offer users time-savings and simplification through open standards and interfaces that are co-ordinated with one another.
Bosch Rexroth IndraWorks is a software framework whose Field Device Tool (FDT) / Device Type Manager (DTM) technology ensures uniform and rapid engineering of all system components from the Human Machine Interface (HMI) to the sensor. DTMs are integrated using drag-and-drop from a device library in the IndraWorks Project Manager and permit access to sensor parameters, configuration and diagnostic data without additional tools. Current measurement values and device states are clearly visualised with the embedded dialogues of the DTMs, while device data are stored in user projects and, if necessary, archived.
Functionality goes well beyond pure diagnosis. Configuration of a safe laser scanner or IO-Link-enabled sensor from SICK using the IndraWorks tool is a further example of efficient integration with the assistance of FDT/DTM. Comprehensive integration also allows switching of the scanner’s protective field during operation, reading out of the parameters of the IO Link sensors, or their definition with values from recipes.
The latest sensor generation from SICK supports the trailblazing IO Link interface standard. The range already includes photoelectric reflex switches, photoelectric switches, and inductive sensors like the MZ2Q. IO Link bridges the “last metre” to the sensor and allows the transparent integration of sensor data in the PLC program of Rexroth IndraControl L-controllers.
Thus Rexroth and SICK enable simple and rapid integration in differing control topologies and a considerable reduction in costs throughout the entire engineering workflow.
BOSCH Rexroth and SICK also support machine and plant constructors in implementing safety concepts complying with the new Machinery Directive and the new ISO 13849-1 and IEC 62061 safety standards – from the sensor to the drive – through joint seminars and events.
Rexroth and SICK will be showing examples of their collaboration at SPS/IPC/DRIVES from 25 - 27 November 2008 at the FDT, Bosch Rexroth and SICK stands. Moreover, a presentation on the topic of “Parameterising safety-oriented devices for machines via FDT/DTM” will be made during the Congress at 4.30 p.m. on 26.11.2008.
Bosch Rexroth AG: Stand 7-450, Hall 7SICK AG: Stand A-340, Hall 7The FDT Group: 6/124
SICK AG is one of the world’s leading producers of sensors and sensor solutions for industrial applications. The company, founded in 1946 and based in Waldkirch-im-Breisgau, employs over 5,000 personnel worldwide and achieved Group sales of EUR 708 million in 2007. Further information on SICK is available at http://www.sick.com or by phone at +49 (0)7681 202-3873.